Workplace sexual harassment and assault happen too often at work. They cause deep pain for victims and create toxic workplaces.
We must understand how much damage this causes. We also need to work together to keep every workplace safe and fair.
How Big the Problem Is
Sexual harassment at work is still very common.
Across the country, 81% of women and 43% of men face sexual harassment or assault during their lives. On top of that, about 75% of these events at work never get reported.
Because so few people speak up, the real problem is even bigger than the numbers show.
Physical and Mental Effects
Harassment and assault can hurt both the body and the mind. Victims may deal with:
Anxiety and depression
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Trouble sleeping
Less joy in their work and feeling less committed
The Financial Costs
Harassment does not just hurt people. It also hurts businesses.
The financial costs are large:
Loss of jobs and lost chances to grow at work
Lower staff output and poor team spirit
Legal fees and payouts for companies
Legal Rights in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Victims of sexual harassment and assault in Pennsylvania and New Jersey have the right to:
Report the abuse without being punished or fired.
Talk with a lawyer about their choices for help.
File a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission if the boss does not fix the issue.
How to Get Help
If you face sexual harassment or assault at work, take these steps:
Write Down Every Detail: Keep careful notes on what happened. Include dates, times, places, messages, and names of witnesses.
Report It at Work: Follow your company handbook to report the behavior in writing.
Talk to a Lawyer: Call an employment lawyer to learn your legal options.
Taking steps early helps protect your rights and keeps your evidence safe.
We Are Here to Help
Freundlich & Littman, LLC helps workers across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. We know how hard these moments are. We treat every case with privacy and care.
Conclusion
We must all do our part to build safer workplaces for everyone. If you are dealing with harassment at work, you are not alone. Free, confidential legal help is ready for you. Call us today at 215-545-8500 or fill out our web form.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for learning only. It is not legal advice. For advice about your specific case, please contact our law firm handling workplace harassment and abuse cases in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
